The scenic yet remote Kimsey Mountain Highway in Tennessee
Usa, north-america
26.71 km
936 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventurers, listen up! If you're craving a real off-the-grid experience, you HAVE to check out Kimsey Mountain Highway in Polk County, Tennessee. Tucked away in the Cherokee National Forest, this isn't your average Sunday drive.
We're talking a 16.6-mile, unpaved, single-track Jeep road (aka Forest Service Road 68) that winds through some seriously stunning wilderness. Think slow and steady wins the race, because this baby offers a unique, intimate view of the forest. Since you are riding along the top of the ridge, the views are amazing!
Picture this: a road built almost a century ago, untouched by modern paving, still rocking its original, rugged charm. But fair warning: at a peak elevation of 3,070 feet in the Southern Appalachians, you might find the path blocked by fallen trees (chainsaw, anyone?) and the occasional washout.
Starting from either TN-30 or TN-68 (your choice, east or west!), this trek is not for the faint of heart, but the reward is pure, unfiltered Appalachian beauty. Get ready for an unforgettable ride!
Where is it?
The scenic yet remote Kimsey Mountain Highway in Tennessee is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 40.9086, -97.0298
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 26.71 km
- Max Elevation
- 936 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 40.9086, -97.0298
Related Roads in north-america
extremeWhere is Hell's Backbone Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up for a wild ride on Hell's Backbone Road in Garfield County, Utah! This dirt road slices through the stunning Dixie National Forest, connecting Boulder and Escalante with a hefty dose of adrenaline. Built way back in the Great Depression, it's a 38-mile (61 km) stretch of unpaved adventure. It's usually fine for regular cars when it's dry, offering a backcountry alternative to the paved highway. Just take it slow and soak it all in – you won't regret it. Now, let's be real: this road's not for the faint of heart. It's narrow, winding, and hugs a ridge with some serious drop-offs. You'll be climbing to a cool 9,232 feet (2,814m), so it's closed during winter due to snow. Plus, it's remote, so come prepared, especially since cell service is non-existent. So, is it worth it? Absolutely! You're rewarded with insane panoramic views. Make sure to stop at the famous Hell's Backbone Bridge, which spans 109 feet, offering a dizzying peek into the Box-Death Hollow Wilderness Area below. Give yourself 2-3 hours to drive the whole thing, but plan on more to really explore. This road is a must-do for those craving scenery and a touch of adventure.
easyWhere is Frying Pan Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through Colorado, west of Denver, in the heart of Pitkin and Eagle counties. You're on Frying Pan Road, baby! This isn't just any road; it's a 42.3-mile (68.07km) adventure that starts in the adorable town of Basalt and winds its way east towards the intersection of Forest Road 105 and Forest Rd 527 by Ivanhoe Lake. The road is mainly paved (31.7 miles of smooth asphalt) as it dances alongside the Fryingpan River, leading you to the stunning Ruedi Reservoir. Trust me, that shoreline stretch is the highlight reel. But hold up, the last 11 miles turn to gravel, a well-maintained old railroad grade. You might even want to bring a 4x4 to make this trip easier! Expect a twisting, turning canyon drive with red rock walls and plenty of blind curves. It is a well-maintained two-lane road that serves as the main route to Ruedi Reservoir. Keep your eyes peeled for gravel on some of the 25-35 mph marked corners and a good change in elevation. The surface is fantastic through the entire route but deteriorates past the reservoir with less use. Oh, and did I mention you'll be way up high? We are talking about topping out at 10,708ft (3,264m) above sea level. Just a heads up, this road is a no-go in winter due to heavy snowfall and blowing snow. But, if you go in the summer, pack your camera and get ready for some epic views!
moderateWhere is Griffin Top?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're heading to southern Utah? Wanna check out Griffin Top in Garfield County? This isn't your average Sunday drive, but trust me, it's worth it! First things first: you'll need a high-clearance vehicle. Seriously. This is Forest Road 1377, and it's unpaved. After it rains, expect some shallow water crossings to add to the adventure. The road's only open in the warmer months because, at that elevation, winter brings the kind of snow that laughs at your tires. Speaking of elevation, you'll climb to a pretty impressive height to the summit. The road is just a few miles long, and you'll gain a little bit of elevation along the way. What's the payoff? Picture this: You're cruising across a high-altitude plateau with insane views. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife; this area is teeming with it. Plus, you'll get a postcard-perfect look at Mount Dutton. Ready for an off-the-beaten-path adventure? Griffin Top is calling your name!
moderateLos Altares Road
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, road trip lovers, listen up! If you find yourself in Durango, Mexico, you HAVE to check out Los Altares. This isn't just a drive; it's an experience. Imagine cruising along a perfectly paved road, snaking between towering rock formations and lush forests. We're talking seriously stunning scenery here. The whole stretch is about 76 kilometers, connecting the sweet little town of Los Altares with Ciénega de Nuestra Señora. And get this: both towns sit at a cool 2,500 meters above sea level, so you're getting some serious altitude with breathtaking views. Trust me, this is one road trip that'll leave you speechless!